Regular maintenance of a recreational vehicle is ongoing. The frequency of required maintenance usually is 12 months, or the engine OEM-specified mileage, whichever comes first. However, there are warning signs of trouble that may crop up from time to time. So how do you know if a particular item requires service?

Well, you don’t have to be a mechanic to detect a problem — just be vigilant for out-of-the-ordinary RV phenomena. Here’s an example: You’re sitting in your rig when you hear the water pump run for a second or so, then stop. Strangely, there is no one using water. Solution: Turn off the ice maker if applicable and listen for the next few minutes. If the short-run cycle happens again, you have an issue. Either the pump outlet check valve is leaking back or you have a leak at a line. The more common problem is the latter. Usually, a fitting or hose clamp needs tightening.

So let’s look at some common issues you may encounter:

A strange, rotten-egg-like smell seems to be present, particularly near a sink. Culprit: The water lines, drains and possibly tank need to be flushed. Check out available solutions.

Front tires differ in temperature by 15 degrees or more when highway driving, and neither is subjected to the sun’s heat. Culprit: Probable misalignment. Front-end alignment may be required.

Air conditioner starts and immediately shuts down. Culprit: Almost certainly a failed capacitor.

Hydronic heater starts and then shuts down. Culprit: Usually the burner nozzle needs replacing or a sensor has failed. There are other possible causes, like low fluid. Check the fault code in the manual.

Leveling jack warning alarm activates while driving. Culprit: Most likely, heat expansion of the hydraulic oil is causing one jack to extend slightly. Push and hold the retract button until the alarm stops.

Air compressor on diesel pusher cuts in every 2 to 3 minutes while sitting idling. Culprit: Possible airline leak. Shut off and walk around and listen for leak. Other possibilities include pneumatic component or compressor valve failure. The most common is a line leak at a fitting.

There are many more things that we can detect. If you observe, hear or feel anything out of the ordinary, don’t ignore it. This will avoid the all-too-common, “oh, so that’s what caused that strange sound!” as you pay a hefty repair fee.